Walmart and REI back automated 3D weaving hubs to enable domestic apparel production

Leading apparel brands, including Walmart, have extended support to unspun’s initiative to establish automated apparel manufacturing hubs in the United States. The plan focuses on deploying AI-enabled 3D weaving technology to bring production closer to consumers.

Several global apparel brands have expressed support for unspun’s plan to build domestic manufacturing capacity in the U.S. using advanced 3D weaving technology. The initiative aims to create automated production hubs that enable faster and demand-driven apparel manufacturing.

Supply chain partners including Bethel Industries, Peckham, and PDS Ltd / GSC Link are also participating in the project. Initial production is expected in the near term, with site evaluations currently underway across multiple U.S. states.

The company, which has raised more than $50 million in venture capital funding, is advancing its proprietary AI-enabled 3D weaving system. The technology enables garments to be produced directly from yarn through an automated process, reducing reliance on traditional cut-and-sew methods.

REI has also signed a letter of support, indicating broader industry interest in reshoring apparel manufacturing and adopting new production technologies.

"We are not exploring whether domestic apparel manufacturing can work. We are building it," said Arne Arens, CEO of unspun and former Global Brand President of The North Face. "Our clients are looking for a new production model because they see the economics: manufacturing closer to the customer, responding to demand within the same season, and creating skilled American jobs in the process."

unspun’s 3D weaving system produces semi-finished garments directly from yarn within minutes, replacing multiple conventional production steps with a single automated process. This approach allows brands to respond to demand more quickly, reorder within the same season, and reduce excess inventory.

According to the company, the technology can shorten production timelines from months to days and improve gross margins by 400–500 basis points by reducing markdowns and unsold inventory. It also supports the development of skilled manufacturing jobs in the U.S.

Avisnash Bhasker, Vice President, Apparel Production Development at Walmart, said, "Our customers are proud to buy apparel made in America, and the demand keeps growing. We are excited about unspun’s commitment and effort in helping rebuild domestic manufacturing capability that is faster, smarter, and designed for how customers actually shop."

The company is currently assessing potential locations, infrastructure needs, and workforce training programs as part of its plans to establish the first automated apparel manufacturing hubs powered by 3D weaving technology.

Arne Arens, who was appointed CEO in March 2026, brings experience from leadership roles at The North Face and Boardriders, the parent company of Quicksilver and Billabong. His appointment reflects the company’s transition from technology development to large-scale industrial deployment.